Yes, owning a tank in Argentina is legal but tightly controlled under national firearms and explosives laws, with municipal variances. The Reglamento de Armas de Fuego y Explosivos (Decreto 602/2018) classifies armored vehicles as restricted military-grade assets, requiring prior authorization from the Secretaría de Seguridad Interior and compliance with Dirección Nacional de Control de Armas y Explosivos (DNCAE) protocols. Recent 2026 amendments mandate additional ballistic testing and storage certifications for civilian ownership.
Key Regulations for Owning a Tank in Argentina
- Military-Class Restriction: Tanks fall under Clase IV (military-grade) per Ley 20.429/1973, barring civilian ownership without a permiso de tenencia issued by the DNCAE. Historical decommissioned units may qualify for colección privada status under Decreto 1050/2020, but only if disarmed and immobilized.
- Municipal Zoning Compliance: Local ordinances (e.g., Código de Ordenamiento Urbano in Buenos Aires) prohibit armored vehicle storage in residential zones. Storage requires certificado de habilitación from the Ministerio de Seguridad de la Provincia or equivalent.
- Transportation Licensing: Movement of tanks demands a guía de transporte especial from the Agencia Nacional de Seguridad Vial, with route approvals and armed escort protocols for public roads. Violations trigger Ley 24.449 penalties, including asset seizure.